Friends:

Nicki and I like watching John Oliver’s show on Sunday nights.  He’s a funny guy and he loves speaking truth to power, and last night’s show did not disappoint.  He talked about the crippling effect that parking and speeding tickets can have on people. 

Back in January…I introduced a parking ticket amnesty ordinance so that we could help people get out from under crippling fines and fees, but also bring money into the city coffers. I thought it was a good idea then, and I still think if we are concerned about people across this city, it is something to support now.  

To be clear:  If you broke the law, you should pay your fine.  But this ordinance is not about wiping the slate clean, it is about giving people the ability to pay their ticket. 

My ordinance was introduced in January and hopefully we can vote on it at the next City Council meeting.  To make that happen, I need your help. 

Will you call your alderman at 312-744-5000 and tell them you want my parking ticket amnesty bill to get a vote in the full City Council?  

It is a cruel and crippling joke the effect late fees can have on a person that can barely make ends meet.  Let's do something about it.  

Onward,

Bob